As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Hall County Task Force Against Domestic Violence once again will host its annual Domestic Violence Breakfast & Briefing in Gainesville.

The 13th annual community event takes place Tuesday morning at the Brenau Downtown Center off the Gainesville Square.

Keynote speaker for this year's event is domestic violence survivor April Ross. Ross, a prosecutor for the Fulton County District Attorney's office, was shot multiple times by her estranged husband, who later committed suicide.

In addition, attendees will be able to listen to and ask questions of a panel of experts during an "after chat" forum.

Georgia Commission on Family Violence Executive Director and panel member for the event, Jennifer Thomas, states that domestic violence, like that suffered by Ross, needs to be openly discussed more than it currently is in communities .

"Domestic violence does not impact one specific group of people. We know that domestic violence occurs in one in every four relationships. That does not mean that all of those individuals are experiencing physical violence. It may be emotional, psychological or financial abuse," said Thomas.

"Domestic violence thrives in silence. When we as individuals or a community remain silent on this issue, offenders are successful . That is why this event in Hall County is so important. We can stand up and bring this to the forefront."

Also included in the panel discussion with Thomas following a presentation by Ross are:

Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence Center Executive Director

Stephanie Woodard, Hall County Solicitor General

Julie Battle, Chair of Brenau University’s Psychology Department

There is no cost to attend the breakfast and briefing. It begins at 7:45 a.m. in the theater of the Brenau Downtown Center.

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